December 10, 2014 

 

City of Toronto employees announced a record fundraising total of $1.44 million in support of United Way Toronto at an event held today at the 519 Church St. Community Centre. The goal was $1.25 million. The $1.44 million raised is the highest amount ever raised by the Toronto Public Service and the 14th year in a row that City employees have exceeded their fundraising goal.

 

“I would like to congratulate the phenomenal efforts of the Toronto Public Service in exceeding their United Way fundraising goal for the 14th consecutive year," said Mayor John Tory. "Your commitment and determination is a great example of a city that cares!”

 

City Manager Joe Pennachetti commented, "With the formal support of our unions and associations, the Toronto Public Service has shown true dedication to helping those who are less fortunate in our community."

 

"This record amount represents a four per cent increase in deductions through payroll over last year. This increase was made possible by the work of countless volunteers," said Deputy City Manager and Campaign Co-Patron John Livey. 

 

Co-Patron, CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire said, "City of Toronto staff continue to demonstrate a commitment to providing hope and opportunity to one in three Torontonians."

 

This year's employee campaign had record-breaking staff participation in events such as the CN Tower Climb, the Civic Run and an online auction. With formal support from all City unions and associations (CUPE Local 79, CUPE Local 416, the Toronto Professional Fire Fighters" Association, TPLWU 4948 and COTAPSA), one in 10 donors was a new donor.

 

Workplace campaigns are a crucial component of the City of Toronto’s annual fundraising drive. Money is raised through individual employee pledges, including leadership donations and other activities. These donations go to a larger United Way Community Fund that provides core funding to a network of 200 non-profit agencies across Toronto that meet urgent needs and provide social services to strengthen individuals, families and communities.

 

The Toronto Public Service is joined in its campaign by the following agencies; Toronto Public Library, Toronto Zoo, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Toronto Parking Authority and Exhibition Place.

 

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

 

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Media contact: Mohamed Shuriye, Toronto Office of Partnerships, 416-397-4017, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.